Vladimir Guerrero Jr evaluated for concussion after Yankees collision
Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr was evaluated for a potential concussion following a collision with George Lombard Jr during Friday’s 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees.
The six-time All-Star suffered a blow to the head when the New York rookie’s knee struck him during a chaotic sixth-inning sequence at third base.
His helmet was dislodged by the impact, though he managed to recover and run home to score the tying run.
However, the standout infielder appeared visibly dazed after crossing the plate and was subsequently replaced by Charles McAdoo.
Manager urges caution
Toronto manager John Schneider confirmed the substitution was made on a precautionary basis.
“He has a little bit of a headache. We’ll see how he is tomorrow.”
The incident occurred after a sequence of throwing errors by Yankees infielders Ryan McMahon and Luis Garcia Jr allowed the Canadian franchise to capitalise.
Errors cost New York
Garcia failed to cleanly field McMahon’s initial throw to first base, prompting the baserunner to sprint towards third.
As Lombard leapt over the sliding player to retrieve a wild secondary throw, the violent contact took place.
“Obviously, it led to a couple of runs for them and that hurts.”
McMahon said of the defensive breakdown that ultimately cost his side.
The injury scare casts a shadow over an otherwise solid season for the powerful right-handed batter.
He is currently hitting .263 for the campaign, having contributed seven home runs and 46 RBIs to the Toronto cause.